Good Work Austin Receives $50,000 in Funding from Austin Community Foundation
We’re honored to share that Good Work Austin has received $50,000 in unrestricted funding from the Forever Austin Fund at the Austin Community Foundation (ACF). This support is part of a historic $2.3 million investment in Central Texas nonprofits in 2025—surpassing ACF’s original goal of $2 million to meet the urgent and growing needs in our region.
The Forever Austin Fund serves as a permanent community resource focused on addressing our city’s most pressing challenges and opportunities. This year, 99 local nonprofits received general operating grants through a highly competitive process. Out of 534 proposals reviewed by ACF staff, board members, donors, and community reviewers, organizations were selected across three strategic focus areas: Economic Mobility, Health and Humanities, and Nurturing Our Region.
Good Work Austin was selected under the “Economic Mobility: Career Pathways & Resources” category, which supports organizations focused on increasing economic mobility and reducing wealth disparities in Central Texas. These funds will directly support our efforts to transform working conditions, increase livable wages, and provide critical support for small business owners striving to implement fair labor practices.
“This funding is transformative for us,” said Kara Hanaoka, Executive Director of Good Work Austin. “Unrestricted support allows us to stay focused on what matters most: helping food and beverage workers build dignified, sustainable careers. We will be able to transform working conditions, increase liveable wages, and provide critical support for business owners striving to implement fair labor practices. These improvements will have a ripple effect, strengthening not only our local food and beverage industry but also Austin’s economy as a whole.
As the only organization in Central Texas solely focused on improving jobs and conditions for food workers, we know the ripple effects of this work extend far beyond any one business. A stronger, more equitable food industry means a healthier local economy and a more just future for everyone in our community.
We’re deeply grateful to Austin Community Foundation and the generous donors behind the 24 funds that made these grants possible. Together, we are building a stronger, more inclusive Austin.
To learn more and explore the full list of this year’s grantees, visit ACF’s 2025 Forever Austin Fund page.